Which technique helps paddlers protect against capsizing a canoe or kayak?

• A. Keeping a low center of gravity and 3 points of contact
• B. Paddling with knees locked
• C. Wearing heavy boots
• D. Paddling only on calm days

Answer: (A)

Controlling balance while paddling comes down to where your weight sits and how you stay in contact with the boat. Keeping a low center of gravity puts your weight closer to the hull, which reduces the tipping moment when the canoe or kayak tilts. Having three points of contact gives you multiple bracing options to respond to a tilt, helping you distribute weight quickly and stabilize the craft. Together, these habits let you maintain stability in a range of conditions and greatly reduce the risk of capsizing.

Paddling with knees locked removes your ability to absorb motion or brace effectively, making a capsize easier. Wearing heavy boots adds unnecessary ballast and can hinder quick, precise movements. Paddling only on calm days avoids training your balance skills in real-world conditions, which is not how you learn to stay upright when things get a little rough.